Symptoms of Different Modern Day Addictions » Symptoms of Gambling Addiction | Symptoms of Different Modern Day Addictionshttp://crvpr.org
Tue, 05 Mar 2013 23:09:16 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1Symptoms of Gambling Addiction/symptoms-of-gambling-addiction/
/symptoms-of-gambling-addiction/#commentsThu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000http://6024485People with gambling addictions frequently experience irresistible urges to visit the casino. They exhibit a number of emotional and behavioral symptoms. After learning the signs of addiction, some people realize that they are compulsive gamblers. Such symptoms may also indicate that a friend, spouse or parent is addicted to gambling.

1. To hide the problem, many addicts gamble secretly. A compulsive gambler may lie about travel destinations, computer activities or absences from work. He or she may succeed in deceiving friends and family members for many weeks or months. However, it is much easier to hide the gambling than the financial problems it creates.

2. Gambling becomes a top priority for addicts. This often results in unpaid bills and calls from debt collectors. A compulsive gambler may borrow money and carry large amounts of cash. He or she might gamble instead of working or looking for employment. Problem gamblers frequently lose their jobs or receive smaller paychecks.

3. Alcoholics often need to drink more and more liquor to achieve the same high. Many gambling addicts face a similar predicament. They feel an urge to keep making larger bets. Small wagers become boring. Some gamblers also spend more and more time at casinos, race tracks or betting websites. Gambling becomes more important than other people.

4. Many compulsive gamblers have certain types of thoughts on a regular basis. They think about gambling and money constantly. Some believe that they can win by playing more skillfully. Others use gambling to avoid serious problems in their lives. Unfortunately, addicts rarely share these thoughts and beliefs with other people.

5. People with gambling addictions frequently become depressed or irritable. These symptoms may worsen if they begin using drugs or drinking numerous alcoholic beverages. Nearly 50 percent of compulsive gamblers are also alcoholics, according to the BBC. This can make it more difficult for family members to identify a gambling addiction.

6. A compulsive gambler’s personality may change. He or she might become self-centered and indifferent to the needs of others. The person may lose interest in recreational activities. Favorite games, TV programs or hobbies might be forgotten. Relatives and friends will only seem important when he or she wants to borrow additional money.

People should take compulsive gambling seriously. This type of addiction often leads to financial ruin, criminal activity or even suicide. Several effective treatment options are available. Support groups, therapy and medication can help people escape gambling addictions, according to the National Library of Medicine.